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Sally Blackler - Letter to readers of Army News
22 May 2007
Army PTI Sergeant Nathan Blacker died on 23 March 2007 after developing cancer seven years ago. He was a courageous and much-loved father, husband, son and soldier. Here, his wife, Sally Blackler, writes to readers of Army News.
How can I ever thank everyone for the kindness and generosity they have shown since Nathan was diagnosed with terminal cancer? When Nath first went to his bosses, WO1 Thomas and Lt Col Kaihau, and told them that his cancer was back, they leapt into action and formulated their plans on how they would support him and our family. The Linton Gym staff were also there for us from that point, not hesitating to offer us their support and love throughout this journey. We were given the wonderful gift of going to Australia on our very last family holiday, a time that we will always cherish. Soon after, the Blackball Relay was held, where the ongoing generosity blew us away. Support soon came in from all the Services, where fundraising went on not only by the Army, but Air Force and Navy as well. Nath was comforted knowing that the kids would be looked after by the Trust Fund that was established through everyone’s relentless fundraising efforts.
Col Lofty Hayward and his team made this difficult time easier for us by overseeing the posting to Burnham Camp, where Nath spent his last few months. Since arriving in Burnham we were overwhelmed by the continuing support and love from his military and community whanau.
The Army’s continuing support at his tangi once Nath passed away, was a comfort that cannot be measured or expressed in words. Nath’s love for the military and their love for him was shown by the Army’s presence at this time. Not only was there a large attendance at the funeral, but hundreds turned up to the memorials held at both Linton and Burnham Camps.
Special thanks goes to WO1 Shaun Thomas, Lieutenant Colonel Oiroa Kaihau, WO2 Mac Aitkin, Colonel Lofty Hayward, WO2 Kelvin McMillan, all the PTIs, especially SSgt Rob Warrender, SSgt Scotty Cottier, SSgt Richie Ewins, and SSgt Paul Dodds. Also, Captain Bevan Guy, and the fantastic caterers at Nath’s tangi, especially SSgt Leon Whitelaw. Thank you also to the Senior Medical Officer Dr Iain Bell and Captain Vikki Collins for their outstanding support and care of Nathan. For all the baking, wood, flowers, cards, and donations towards the Child Cancer Foundation, thank you.
Even now, as time slowly passes I continue to feel the love and kindness from the Army Community. From myself, and our children Hemi and Aniwa, we are all grateful and humbled by the goodness that people have shown through their words and their actions.
This page was last reviewed on 25 May 2007 and is current.
